vcc.ca
ELCO 1100: Applied Mechanics
Effective date
January 2026
Department
Construction Elec Foundation
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
In this course, students will solve problems involving simple machines, mechanical advantage, and efficiency by applying the concepts of Work, Power, Torque, and Energy.
Credits
4.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Define the terms relating to mechanical science.
- Calculate the amount of energy contained in or converted to different forms of energy (primarily: potential, kinetic, mechanical, and electrical).
- Solve problems involving basic calculations for work, power, energy, and torque.
- Describe terms dealing with mechanical advantage and efficiency.
- Describe the application of levers, pulleys, and motor drive systems.
- Solve problems involving mechanical advantage, simple machines, and efficiency.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 50
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 10
Total Hours: 60
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 10
Total Hours: 60
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Participation |
10 |
|
|
Assignments |
30 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
30 |
|
|
Final Exam |
30 |
|
Course topics
- Mechanical science terminology
- Energy forms and conversion
- Work, power, energy, and torque calculations
- Mechanical advantage and efficiency
- Levers, pulleys, and motor drive systems
- Simple machines
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.